Student Video: My Shadow
Take a playful peek at shadows as they stretch, shrink, and change throughout the day. “My Shadow” video is sure to spark curiosity and conversation about light, movement, and the surprising science behind our ever-present shadow friends! Poem by Peggy Archer. Video by Carrie Brown, Third Place Winner in the 2026 STEAM Powered Poetry Video Contest.
 | CATEGORY:science | GRADE LEVEL:primary |
DOWNLOADS:
ACTIVITIES:
Put on a Puppet Show
Making shadow puppets is a form of shadow art that makes experimenting with blocking light and creating shadows fun for kids. You can create a shadow puppet theater and host a puppet show at home or in the classroom. https://rhythmsofplay.com/educational-shadow-activities-for-kids/
Draw Your Shadow
Take children outside and invite them to observe how their shadows change with light. Work in pairs, have one child stand while the other traces their shadow, then switch roles and compare results. A simple, engaging STEAM activity blending art, science, and observation!
Dance with Your Shadow
Put on fun music in a sunny outdoor space where children can see their shadows and dance alongside them. Add shaker eggs or other simple instruments to build rhythm and energy. For extra fun, pause the music at intervals and invite everyone to freeze in place—watching their “frozen” shadows often leads to plenty of giggles!
Visual Shadow Game
Use a flashlight or lamp to cast shadows of familiar objects onto a wall or sheet. Have children guess what each shadow might be before revealing the object. Let children take turns being “the Shadow Maker.” This fun game builds observation skills, visual perception, and early critical thinking through play.
Shadow Stained Glass Craft
A design, such as a butterfly, is cut out from a piece of cardboard, leaving open spaces where colored cellophane is attached. When placed in front of a light source, such as a window or flashlight, the cellophane allows light to pass through, casting colorful shadows onto a surface. https://www.educationcorner.com/shadow-activity-ideas/
CRAFT:
Doodle Lou's "Paper Plate Sundial"
Turn sunshine into science with this hands-on STEAM craft from Doodle Lou. The Paper Plate Sundial craft blends art, observation, and early science concepts like Earth’s rotation and shadows. A fun way for children to learn how people told time long before digital devices.
